United States – Tide Water

1940s United States Road Map | Flying A Ethyl Gasoline

A traveler’s diary in map form. This authentic 1940s Flying A (Tidewater Associated Oil Co.) map is a unique piece of living history. More than just a guide, this specific copy features hand-marked notations from a mid-century family road trip—documenting hotel stays, route choices, and lodging costs from a bygone era.

Specifications

• Era: Vintage (c. 1940s)

• Publisher: Tidewater Associated Oil Company

• Brand: Flying A Ethyl Gasoline

• Provenance: Hand-annotated with original family travel logs and hotel costs.

• Historical Context: Published when the federal gas tax was just $0.015$ per gallon.

The Details

This map is a rare find for those who value the “human” side of history. The handwritten circles around hotel stops and the carefully noted prices offer a poignant look at the economics and logistics of American travel before the interstate system. Featuring the iconic Flying A branding and period-accurate cartography, it is a perfect centerpiece for a collection or a narrative-driven wall display.